Wilder Schools
We want to inspire a love of nature in the next generation
We want to inspire a love of nature in the next generation. That's why we work in schools across our counties, giving children and young people unforgettable experiences exploring and discovering the wonders of the natural world. We believe that by fostering a hands-on connection with nature, children can gain a better understanding of the environment, while having fun at the same time!
At Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust we are committed to expanding the educational experiences of children and instilling a deep appreciation for wildlife. We firmly believe that if we can cultivate a child's love for nature today, they will be more inclined to protect it in the future.
What do we offer?
Our programs are designed to cater to everyone, from training and resources for staff to tailored centre sessions for students. With a range of packages available, we have something to suit every need. So why not find out more below and join us on our mission to create a wilder future for the next generation.
Become a Wilder School
Below are ways your school can get involved and inspire the next generation to love and protect the natural world!
Wilder Schools Leader
Become a Wilder School with us! By registering one of your staff members as a Wilder School Leader, your school can gain access to exclusive training and networking opportunities for your staff. We offer downloadable activities that can help your school make more space for nature and incorporate it into your curriculum.
Cost: Free
Forest School Sessions
Our Forest School sessions help to deliver and support the Natural Curriculum. It’s a great way to connect children with nature and develop skills to help them become independent and creative learners.
Sessions can be adapted to suit all ages, abilities and interests, and our Level 3 qualified Forest School leaders work closely with school staff to ensure all needs are met. Our Forest School programme comprises of six or more sessions with groups of around 12 – 15 children or young people. Sessions usually run on consecutive weeks, for at least two hours. Pre-visits and talks to schools, parents and children are also available in advance of sessions taking place.
As the weeks pass and the children become more confident in the Forest School setting they are encouraged to initiate their own play. Our leaders are trained in developing individual learning styles and allowing children to learn at their own pace.
Example activities include:
- Den building
- Safe fire lighting and fire management
- Campfire cooking
- Scavenger hunts
- Boat building
- Woodcraft activities using simple tools and natural resources
- Stories with themes of the natural world
- Sculpture and art using natural materials
What is Forest School?
Forest School is a system of learning in an outdoor classroom through a range of practical skills and achievable tasks which build confidence, self-esteem and independence. Developed in Sweden in the 1950’s, the benefits of Forest School are internationally recognized for children and young people of all ages and abilities.
What will it consist of?
- Six or more sessions in a local woodland with the same group of 12-15 youngsters
- A stimulating and innovative learning programme linked to individual learning styles
- Activities linked to seasonal change
- The use of tools to work with natural materials
Participants will:
- Develop and share new skills
- Grow in self- confidence and self esteem
- Be independent
- Assess and manage risk
- Problem solve
- Explore and discover the natural world
- Grow in environmental awareness
Teacher & Leader Training
Providing people with the opportunity to connect with the natural world is at the heart of what we do. We believe that equipping teachers and leaders with the skills and confidence to take groups outside is a key way this can be achieved. Our training programmes can help you develop new skills, or hone the ones you already have to provide children, young people and adults with the best possible outdoor experience.
Packages
Choose from one of our packages or work with our Education Officer’s to create a tailor-made package which matches your group’s requirements. For more information please contact us. Please note that due to high demand, we recommend six months advance booking.
Our Learning Spaces
Coastal visits
Wilder Schools & Groups
Layers
Blogs & News
Wild Wicor-A Calendar Year 'Summer'
Harry Munt, Wicor Garden Volunteer and Wildlife Conservationist, shares with us his observations of Wicor Primary School's wild…
Wild Wicor-A Calendar Year 'Winter'
Harry Munt, Wicor Garden Volunteer and Wildlife Conservationist, shares with us his observations of Wicor Primary School's wild…
Wild Wicor: A Calendar Year 'Spring'
Harry Munt, Wicor Garden Volunteer and Wildlife Conservationist, shares with us his observations of Wicor Primary School's wild…
Safeguarding and Child Protection
We take child protection and safeguarding very seriously. Our Child Protection and Safeguarding Statement sets out how we implement child protection and safeguarding across the Wildlife Trust and who to contact if you have questions or concerns.